What Moving Supplies Do You Really Need for Your Move?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Expect to spend between $200 and $600 on packing supplies for a typical three bedroom home.
Prioritize buying specialized boxes for fragile items to prevent damage during transit.
Always keep a separate essentials box for items you need during your first 24 hours in the new home.
Packing for an interstate move is rarely just about throwing clothes into a suitcase. Most people underestimate the sheer volume of materials required, leading to last minute trips to the store that quickly drain your budget. Having a comprehensive list of moving supplies prepared early keeps you organized and prevents breakage on the road.
You should view your packing materials as an insurance policy for your belongings. Quality tape and heavy duty boxes prevent the common disasters that happen when cheap supplies fail mid transit. Planning your inventory now helps you avoid the common trap of overbuying or, worse, running out of supplies in the middle of a Friday night packing session.
What items should be on your list of moving supplies?
The foundation of your packing setup is, unsurprisingly, cardboard. You need more than just one size, as using large boxes for heavy items makes them impossible to carry and prone to bottoming out. Small boxes are best for books and canned goods, while medium boxes handle kitchenware and clothing. Large boxes belong to lightweight items like bedding and pillows.
The must have box inventory
Most households need a mix of sizes to handle different weights. Aim for a ratio that gives you plenty of small and medium boxes, as these are the workhorses of any move. You should also account for specialty boxes. Dish packs with cardboard dividers protect your glassware, and wardrobe boxes allow you to move your closet without folding every single shirt.
Tools that save your sanity
Beyond boxes, you need a high quality tape gun. Using your teeth or a pair of dull scissors wastes time and creates frustration. Keep a thick black permanent marker attached to your tape gun with a piece of string. Labeling every box by room and contents as you seal it is the single most effective way to stay organized.
Supply Item
Estimated Cost Range
Primary Purpose
Small Moving Boxes
$1.50 - $2.50 each
Heavy items like books and tools
Medium Moving Boxes
$2.00 - $3.50 each
Linens, toys, and kitchenware
Packing Tape
$3.00 - $5.00 per roll
Securing boxes and heavy duty wrap
Bubble Wrap or Paper
$15.00 - $30.00 per roll
Protecting fragile surfaces
Why cheap packing supplies cost you more
Saving a few dollars on reused liquor store boxes might seem smart until the bottom gives out while you are carrying them up a flight of stairs. Used boxes often have compromised structural integrity, meaning they may collapse under the pressure of a stack inside the moving truck. You want rigid, double walled boxes for anything heavy or valuable.
Protecting your investment
Full Value Protection is a standard requirement for interstate moves, but it only kicks in if you pack things correctly. Movers often refuse to take responsibility for items packed in flimsy, store bought boxes that were not rated for transit. Using proper moving supplies shows you took the necessary precautions to safeguard your goods.
Under a binding estimate, you pay exactly the quoted price at delivery, regardless of the shipment actual weight, unless you add services after signing. Keep this in mind when budgeting for extra packing labor or materials provided by your moving company.
The value of professional grade tape
Clear shipping tape is not the same as standard masking tape. You need adhesive that holds strong under temperature changes, especially if your items spend time in a hot or cold storage unit. A few extra dollars spent on quality tape prevents the headache of boxes popping open during the move.
How to manage your packing budget
If the upfront cost feels steep, look for ways to offset expenses without sacrificing quality. Some people successfully source clean, uniform boxes from local hardware stores or online community marketplaces. However, always prioritize buying new boxes for your most fragile and valuable items to ensure they arrive in one piece.
Calculating your needs
Before buying, walk through your home and count the number of drawers, shelves, and closets. A common mistake is buying for the square footage of the house rather than the actual volume of items you keep. Try our moving cost calculator to see how volume impacts your overall relocation expenses.
Planning for the first night
Set aside a specific set of supplies for an essentials box. This box travels with you in your personal vehicle and contains everything you need for the first 24 hours. Include basic toiletries, phone chargers, medications, and a few simple tools so you can assemble furniture without tearing through every box you own.
When should you pay for packing services?
Sometimes the best supply is professional hands. If you are overwhelmed or simply do not have the time to wrap every plate, full service packing is a viable option. Professional packers bring their own high end supplies, which are often included in the service cost.
Checking the credentials of your movers
If you decide to hire pros, always ensure they are properly licensed for the move you are planning. Never skip the step of verifying that your chosen company is legitimate before handing over your belongings. Verify a mover's license to ensure they are registered with federal authorities for interstate transport.
Understanding your rights
Always remember that movers must offer two levels of liability coverage. You can choose Released Value Protection, which is free but provides limited coverage, or Full Value Protection for more comprehensive peace of mind. Discuss these options before your move date so you are not making rushed decisions on the morning of the move.
Should I use plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes?
Plastic bins are excellent for long term storage but can be difficult to stack inside a moving truck because they lack the uniform rigidity of cardboard. They also tend to crack under extreme weight or temperature shifts during transport. Stick to cardboard for the bulk of your move to ensure everything fits securely.
Can I use newspaper to wrap my dishes?
Newspaper is a poor choice for wrapping because the ink transfers to your items and can cause permanent staining. Always use clean unprinted packing paper or bubble wrap to protect your dishes and glassware. It costs a little more, but it saves your belongings from messy ink smudges.
How many rolls of tape do I need for a two bedroom apartment?
For a standard two bedroom apartment, plan on buying at least six to eight rolls of high quality packing tape. It is always better to have an extra roll left over than to run out when the stores are closed. You will likely use more tape than you anticipate to reinforce the bottoms and seams of every box.
If you are feeling unsure about your move, take a moment to look over your inventory and confirm your travel dates. You can browse more cost guides to help refine your budget and keep your plans on track. Moving is a big job, but with the right supplies and a clear plan, you will get through it just fine.
